UV Index in Riobamba, Ecuador

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Riobamba, Ecuador, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin against harmful solar radiation. Understanding UV levels helps residents and visitors alike prevent sunburn and maintain long-term skin health, especially given the high UV indices observed from late morning to early afternoon, where levels can reach as high as 14. Nestled within a Cfb climate zone, Riobamba experiences a unique blend of moderate temperatures and intense solar exposure, making it imperative to stay informed about UV risks, particularly during peak hours. Prioritizing UV protection can significantly enhance your outdoor experiences in this vibrant Andean city.

Hourly UV Index in Riobamba

The UV Index exhibits a dynamic pattern throughout the day, peaking at 14 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, indicating high levels of ultraviolet radiation during this time. As the sun climbs, the index rises rapidly from a modest 1 at 7:00 AM to a striking 13 by 11:00 AM, highlighting the increasing need for sun protection. After the peak hours, the index begins to decline, dropping to 7 by 3:00 PM and further to 1 by 5:00 PM, before falling to 0 at 7:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of staying vigilant and protected during the sunniest hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	2	low	45 min
09:00	5	moderate	30 min
10:00	9	very high	15 min
11:00	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	14	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	7	high	25 min
16:00	4	moderate	30 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Riobamba

Throughout the year, the UV Index remains extremely high, with values consistently between 14 and 19, making the risk for skin damage significant. The highest risk months are from February to March, where the UV Index peaks at 18 and 19, indicating a very short burn time of just 10 minutes. This extreme exposure is notable throughout the winter and spring, continuing into early fall with only slight decreases in the summer. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, particularly from February to April, to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Riobamba, Ecuador

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Riobamba. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Riobamba, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Riobamba UV Index with Other Ecuador Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Riobamba compares to other major locations across Ecuador. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Riobamba's solar exposure compared to other cities in Ecuador. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Guayaquil UVI	14	14	15	14	12	11	10	11	13	13	11	12
Machala UVI	14	14	15	14	12	10	10	11	13	13	12	12
Santo Domingo de los Colorados UVI	14	15	16	15	14	12	12	12	13	14	12	11
Cuenca UVI	16	17	18	18	16	13	14	14	17	16	15	15
Quito UVI	17	17	19	19	17	14	15	15	17	17	16	14
Riobamba	17	18	19	19	17	14	14	15	17	17	16	15